Canoe and kayak shop

Cottagers, families, recreational paddlers, anglers, campers and keen paddlers who want advice before a big purchase.

Retail margin on boats and gear, plus add-ons like roof racks, accessories, and pre-season tune-ups or repairs. Sales peak in spring and summer, so winter income needs planning.

• Paddling knowledge and gear know-how
• Customer service and sales
• Stock buying and inventory control

• Commercial general liability and property insurance, including cover for stock stored over winter
• Strong seasonality: plan cash flow for slow months and consider winter sales of gear, clothing or storage
• Safety gear rules: check Transport Canada requirements for lifejackets and other boating equipment so you advise customers correctly
• Large boats take space and cash to stock; start with a focused range
• Business licence and GST/HST registration: check with your municipality and the Canada Revenue Agency

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $40,000 to $150,000, depending on location and how much stock you carry. Large boats take space and cash to stock, so consider starting with a focused range.

Check Transport Canada requirements for lifejackets and other boating equipment so you advise customers correctly. Also check your municipality for a business licence, GST/HST registration with the Canada Revenue Agency, and commercial general liability and property insurance, including cover for stock stored over winter.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $5,000 to $25,000, depending on location, range and season, from about 35 hours a week. Seasonality is strong, so plan cash flow for slow months and consider winter sales of gear, clothing or storage.